Gut Microbes Linked to Alcohol Dependence
The intestinal lining is a protective interface between the digestive tract and the rest of the internal organs and systems. It is a semi-permeable lining that, when healthy, lets in…
Proton Pump Inhibitors Decrease Gut Microbial Diversity
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States, earning billions of dollars for pharmaceutical companies. PPIs markedly decrease the production of stomach…
Fiber Supplement Shifts Gut Bacteria Toward Favorable Balance
Fiber supplements are known for a range of benefits, including the improvement of bowel regularity, regulation of healthy blood sugar levels, and reduction of appetite. Another amazing benefit of some…
Give a Poop this Holiday Season with OpenBiome
“Give a sh!t. Save a life.” Literally. If you have yet to make end of the year charitable contributions, I have just the organization for you. OpenBiome’s slogan, although crude,…
Gut Bacteria and Leaky Brain Syndrome
You may have already heard about leaky gut syndrome (increased intestinal permeability)—damage to the intestinal lining that creates holes through which travel toxins, bacteria, and large food particles from the…
An Apple a Day Feeds Your Gut Bacteria and Keeps Obesity Away
You’ve heard the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but never has it rung more true than it does now. According to researchers from Washington State…
Metabolic Effect of Prebiotics and Probiotics in Overweight People
Brenda and I have talked at length, here on the blog and also in our books, about the importance of gut bacterial balance to weight management. Having the wrong microbes…
Childhood Obesity Linked to Early and Frequent Antibiotic Use
Antibiotic overuse during childhood is rampant. Most physicians, often at the parent’s urging, will prescribe an antibiotic for colds, flu, and ear infections even though antibiotic prescription is not indicated…
Day-Night Cycles Affect Gut Balance
Only over the last century have humans been exposed to such a huge alteration in the sleep-wake cycle that, previously, was dependent only upon the revolution of the earth in…
Your Microbes and Your Home
On and in your body, at this very moment, are living over 100 trillion microbes working together—hopefully—to help protect you from disease. From person to person, these microbes differ, although…